Levi Quinn
Driving in Canada has changed in recent years. Changes to the way border crossing is done has been recently undertaken in order to increase and enhance security. You need to know about driving in Canada before you set off. Ignorance could get you sent right back home if you fail to gather all necessary information first. If you are not familiar with the laws and border crossing regulations, there are many sites that supply this information for free. Be sure to look them up.
You must bring your photo identification with you to Canada as well as your driver’s license and your passport. Recent changes require everyone to bring a passport when crossing the border from either side. This allows officials to verify that you are who you claim to be and that you are not a breach to security. Make sure that your driver’s license and all other I.D. is up to date. Any expired information will need to be renewed before you can enter Canada. Check that it will not be expiring while you are there either.
Everyone that is travelling with you inside the car will need to provide the same information. Border control has to verify every person that wishes to cross the border, not just the driver. Even children will be required to show a passport so get this type of information gathered before your planned trip. It can take time to get a passport if you do not have one so factor the timing for that in as well if necessary.
The rules regarding what you can and cannot bring into Canada tend to change so make sure you are up to date on the latest. This information will be listed online so check it out and make notes of anything important. It would be unfortunate to pack things you can’t take and then have to dispose of them at the border.
You will always be asked for the legal information for your vehicle. Have everything on hand to show border patrol. They are always on alert, watching for stolen vehicles which many criminals attempt to bring over the border to flee authorities. Have your information up to date so that you can get through that much faster. When you are organized and ready to show information, the process will go much faster and smoother.
If you buy anything while you are in Canada make sure that you keep all of the receipts. The border guards may ask to see them when you pass through on your way home. It’s just another way of making paperwork help you get through the line that much quicker. You can also look up border wait times online to get an idea which crossing will be the quickest. Some are longer than others so consider that.
Keep in mind when driving in Canada that some of the traffic rules may vary. The speed limit is posted in kilometres rather than in miles so remember that too or you may find yourself with some speeding tickets. Driving in Canada can be beautiful and exciting if you take care to arrange it accordingly.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
Driving in Mexico
Driving to Mexico can be a fun trip to take with some friends or family. But before you head out of the country there are some things that you should make sure are in place first. Crossing from one place to another can involve a lot of legal aspects. If you fail to have them all in place you risk not being allowed into Mexico. Also, if you neglect certain requirements you could find yourself in trouble or facing a fine. Get all of the necessary information before you plan your trip so that you have no delays holding you back.
Look up the traffic rules and laws in Mexico before you go. Driving in Mexico is not like driving in the United States. If you don’t know what to expect you may find it to be an overwhelming experience. Many people opt not to drive in Mexico because they find it intimidating. It doesn’t have to be. You just need to know what to expect. Browse traffic signs and their meanings online and make any notes if you feel it is beneficial. If you know how the rules work you will have little to worry about.
You will need to take out some form of Mexican auto insurance. Most American insurance policies are not recognized in Mexico in the event of an accident. You must have insurance provided by a Mexican company. Many people do not realize this and then when an accident happens they are left with a huge bill to pay. Look up reputable Mexican insurance agents that deal with American visitors often. They will be able to serve you quickly and get you on your way so that you can focus on enjoying your time in Mexico.
Make sure to bring all of your legal identification information to Mexico with you. You will need a valid driver’s license from your own state and country to drive there as well as proof that you are who you claim to be. In many cases you will be required to apply for temporary importation of your vehicle. This is something that has to be done as you are crossing into Mexico. You will have to have all of the legal documents for your vehicle with you for this. There will be a fee associated with this so be prepared to pay it. The fee is based on the age of your vehicle. Newer cars are subject to a higher rate.
Be careful when you drive in Mexico. Livestock is known to wander on to the road at times and other drivers can occasionally be aggressive. It’s best not to drive at night if at all possible. It is not always safe, especially for those from other countries. Visitors have been known to be robbed while driving in their car at night or in unsafe locations. Stay safe at all times and stay alert regarding what is going on around you. Driving in Mexico requires planning, patience and making sure that everything is legal.
Look up the traffic rules and laws in Mexico before you go. Driving in Mexico is not like driving in the United States. If you don’t know what to expect you may find it to be an overwhelming experience. Many people opt not to drive in Mexico because they find it intimidating. It doesn’t have to be. You just need to know what to expect. Browse traffic signs and their meanings online and make any notes if you feel it is beneficial. If you know how the rules work you will have little to worry about.
You will need to take out some form of Mexican auto insurance. Most American insurance policies are not recognized in Mexico in the event of an accident. You must have insurance provided by a Mexican company. Many people do not realize this and then when an accident happens they are left with a huge bill to pay. Look up reputable Mexican insurance agents that deal with American visitors often. They will be able to serve you quickly and get you on your way so that you can focus on enjoying your time in Mexico.
Make sure to bring all of your legal identification information to Mexico with you. You will need a valid driver’s license from your own state and country to drive there as well as proof that you are who you claim to be. In many cases you will be required to apply for temporary importation of your vehicle. This is something that has to be done as you are crossing into Mexico. You will have to have all of the legal documents for your vehicle with you for this. There will be a fee associated with this so be prepared to pay it. The fee is based on the age of your vehicle. Newer cars are subject to a higher rate.
Be careful when you drive in Mexico. Livestock is known to wander on to the road at times and other drivers can occasionally be aggressive. It’s best not to drive at night if at all possible. It is not always safe, especially for those from other countries. Visitors have been known to be robbed while driving in their car at night or in unsafe locations. Stay safe at all times and stay alert regarding what is going on around you. Driving in Mexico requires planning, patience and making sure that everything is legal.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Top 10 Attractions in Spain
Nicholas Muyonjo
Don't Let One Pass You By!
When you look at a country such as Spain, it's difficult to narrow down all of the attractions and experiences to the top ten. However, here are the top ten attractions in Spain that we think you shouldn't miss.
1. Museo del Prado in Madrid
The Prado is considered to be the world's most premier art museum. With some 4,000 masterpieces, you can explore the history of Spain and the art movement all under one roof. Many of these art featured in the museum was acquired by the kings of Spain and include the works of the masters including Goya, Caravaggio, Fra Angelico, Botticelli and Hieronymus Bosch.
2. La Alhambra in Granada
La Alhambra is a Moorish fortified palace. The palace complex is vast and occupies a large portion of the city. Be sure to plan an entire day for exploring the grounds. If you're visiting in the summer, be certain to purchase your tickets well in advance. La Alhambra is considered to be one of the greatest representations of Islamic art and architecture. The La Alhambra provides a variety of sights within itself including the Alcazaba, the palace's fortress that offers spectacular views of the city.
3. Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
The Sagrada Familia is Gaudi's unfinished cathedral. Work began on the cathedral in 1882 and two years later the architect resigned. Gaudi secured the commission to complete the cathedral and he secluded himself on site to work on it. He lived and worked on the cathedral until he died in 1926 and the cathedral was never finished. The building features Gaudi's transformed Gothic style including sidewalls, vaults and piers. In 1979, work was started on the cathedral to complete it as Gaudi himself would have.
4. The Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
Experience the design of Frank O. Ghery at the Guggenheim in Bilbao. The museum opened its doors to the public in October of 1997 and is considered one of the most significant architectural structures of the 20th century.
5. Cordoba and the Mezquita
Founded by the Romans, the city of Cordoba features a variety of treasures including a mosque-cathedral, the Calahorra Fort, and the Jewish Synagogue, which is now a museum. You also want to check out the medieval quarter of La Juderia.
6. The Running of the Bulls, Pamplona
It's not recommended that you run with the bulls yourself, but definitely have fun watching others do it! This is one of the most famous festivals in Spain, but do go with caution, because it's not only the runners that have been injured.
7. Las Ramblas, Barcelona
The Las Ramblas is just for pedestrians and offers outdoor markets, shops, cafes and restaurants. You can spend the entire day strolling and looking for hidden treasures and sampling all of the great cuisine that Spain has to offer. Don't forget to hit the tascas for some tapas.
8. Experience the Art of Salvador Dali, Figueres
Salvador Dali is one of the most beloved painters in the world. Experience his mausoleum and museum; it's one of the highlights of northern Spain.
9. Ronda
Driving through the Andalucian mountains, you'll upon Ronda. This little town is set atop a huge cliff and features a magnificent bridge that spans a gorge between new and old Ronda. You can also find the oldest bullfighting ring in Spain and roman baths.
10. The Food
You've simply not seen everything in Spain without enjoying the cuisine of the country. No matter which city or town you'll visit, you're going to find a new style of cuisine to try. Take your time and try them all from the ensaimada and tapas to the coffee and paella.
Don't Let One Pass You By!
When you look at a country such as Spain, it's difficult to narrow down all of the attractions and experiences to the top ten. However, here are the top ten attractions in Spain that we think you shouldn't miss.
1. Museo del Prado in Madrid
The Prado is considered to be the world's most premier art museum. With some 4,000 masterpieces, you can explore the history of Spain and the art movement all under one roof. Many of these art featured in the museum was acquired by the kings of Spain and include the works of the masters including Goya, Caravaggio, Fra Angelico, Botticelli and Hieronymus Bosch.
2. La Alhambra in Granada
La Alhambra is a Moorish fortified palace. The palace complex is vast and occupies a large portion of the city. Be sure to plan an entire day for exploring the grounds. If you're visiting in the summer, be certain to purchase your tickets well in advance. La Alhambra is considered to be one of the greatest representations of Islamic art and architecture. The La Alhambra provides a variety of sights within itself including the Alcazaba, the palace's fortress that offers spectacular views of the city.
3. Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
The Sagrada Familia is Gaudi's unfinished cathedral. Work began on the cathedral in 1882 and two years later the architect resigned. Gaudi secured the commission to complete the cathedral and he secluded himself on site to work on it. He lived and worked on the cathedral until he died in 1926 and the cathedral was never finished. The building features Gaudi's transformed Gothic style including sidewalls, vaults and piers. In 1979, work was started on the cathedral to complete it as Gaudi himself would have.
4. The Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
Experience the design of Frank O. Ghery at the Guggenheim in Bilbao. The museum opened its doors to the public in October of 1997 and is considered one of the most significant architectural structures of the 20th century.
5. Cordoba and the Mezquita
Founded by the Romans, the city of Cordoba features a variety of treasures including a mosque-cathedral, the Calahorra Fort, and the Jewish Synagogue, which is now a museum. You also want to check out the medieval quarter of La Juderia.
6. The Running of the Bulls, Pamplona
It's not recommended that you run with the bulls yourself, but definitely have fun watching others do it! This is one of the most famous festivals in Spain, but do go with caution, because it's not only the runners that have been injured.
7. Las Ramblas, Barcelona
The Las Ramblas is just for pedestrians and offers outdoor markets, shops, cafes and restaurants. You can spend the entire day strolling and looking for hidden treasures and sampling all of the great cuisine that Spain has to offer. Don't forget to hit the tascas for some tapas.
8. Experience the Art of Salvador Dali, Figueres
Salvador Dali is one of the most beloved painters in the world. Experience his mausoleum and museum; it's one of the highlights of northern Spain.
9. Ronda
Driving through the Andalucian mountains, you'll upon Ronda. This little town is set atop a huge cliff and features a magnificent bridge that spans a gorge between new and old Ronda. You can also find the oldest bullfighting ring in Spain and roman baths.
10. The Food
You've simply not seen everything in Spain without enjoying the cuisine of the country. No matter which city or town you'll visit, you're going to find a new style of cuisine to try. Take your time and try them all from the ensaimada and tapas to the coffee and paella.
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